We are entering an era in which the critical functions of microbes in the biological world are increasingly recognized. One of the largest roles microorganisms play is in their associations with multicellular hosts and, while the history of microbiology has to this point concentrated on pathogenic interactions, both scientists and the public are now aware of the even greater impact that they have on the health and evolution of their plant and animal partners. 

The GRC on Animal-Microbe Symbioses seeks to promote the presentation and discussion of the most important and timely research in this exciting area of biology. The range of topics is broad, covering theoretical to the applied approaches, using examples involving viruses, fungi, protists and bacteria, found in marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments. The conference invites junior and senior scientists alike to attend and participate fully in the examination of these topics, and to return to their own work with new insights, ideas and collaborations.